Gonsoulin shared his hopes and plans for the school system at this afternoon's meeting of the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.

"I think there's great potential" in Fairfield and its school system, Gonsoulin said. "The goal is to be one of the top 5 percent academically performing school districts in the state" within five years, he said.

In his first year, the superintendent said he wants to work with parents, faculty, the city and the community to build a foundation that addresses curriculum, accountability and leadership. That collaboration is crucial to success, Gonsoulin said.

In two years, "I'd like to be very aggressive in curriculum," he said. That includes a rigorous International Baccalaureate program, advanced courses for older students and learning academies -- specialized programs that focus on subjects such as math and science -- at elementary schools.

Gonsoulin noted he's been working with a transition committee to address teaching and learning, operations and school culture and content. Among those on the committee are members of the Fairfield community and representatives from Miles College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He said he expects to present the plan to the school board on Aug. 16.

Chamber members pledged their support.

"We've come to a real crossroads in this city," said the Rev. Cleophas Guice Sr., the chamber's president. "This chamber stands ready to do the collective work it has to do to make this happen."

Mayor Kenneth Coachman agreed.

"It's got to be about working together. We're working for a common cause, the people of Fairfield," Coachman said.